Photo Abstraction



Project #1 Overview:


  1. Take at least 10 photographs of 10 different objects. Try to take photographs of ordinary objects using unique angles.
  2. Use the following tips when taking photographs:
    • Try different angles; an ordinary object can be reinvented depending on the view-point.
    • Try zooming in; try to see how close you can get before the object isn't recognizable anymore.
    • Pay attention to the edges and negative space; make sure there are no distractions within the frame.
    • Use the rule of thirds.
    • Keep your horizontals horizontal and verticals vertical.
  3. Choose at least ONE photograph and edit it using Adobe Photoshop to emphasize the elements that are illustrated.
  4. Utilize the filters, contrast, and color when editing your photograph.
  5. View the Adobe Photoshop Tutorials on Selection tools, color adjustments, and filters.

Photo Abstraction Example

Before
After
wineglassorgweb.jpg
elementsideaweb.jpg
This is an ordinary photograph of wine glasses. I chose this photo because I liked the various shapes that the wines glasses created.
This is the same photograph after selecting areas, changing colors, and adding filters. I focused on Shape, Texture, and Color for this composition.

Steps:

  1. Choose a photograph to begin editing. Choose one with multiple shapes or areas that can be selected.
  2. Choose a color scheme.
  3. Open your photo in Adobe Photoshop. Select a shape or area in the photograph using the best selection tool for the job.
  4. Change the color of the selected area. Go to Image, Adjustments to change the color.
  5. Choose an appropriate color for your background color (according to your color scheme), and move the selected area.
  6. Add a filter to the selected area.
  7. Select a new area and repeat the steps. Do this until your image is no longer recognizable and interesting to look at.
  8. Select a new area and try to paint or add a gradient to the section.

Adobe Photoshop Video Tutorials

Description

Videos

Color Adjustments: Contrast, brightness, hue, and saturation.
coloradjust.png
screencast.com/t/dJFMbgTL
Painting Tools: Paint brushes, Paint Bucket, Gradients
paintingoptions.png
screencast.com/t/3xb2tCPn
Filters: Selecting and moving areas, changing background colors, and applying filters.
filterssss.png
screencast.com/t/wrVLsYunuc
Student Examples